Paula's Choice vs La Roche-Posay | Which Is Better for Acne?

written by: Tom Qiao
last update: February 10, 2024

Comparison Summary

Editor's Choice

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution, 6.76 fl. oz.

  • Best For: Acne, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles
  • Ingredients: 2% Glycolic Acid, 0.5% Salicylic Acid, Thermal Spring Water
  • Medical Evidence: Excellent
  • Customer Reviews: Outstanding
  • Visible Results: 2-4 Weeks
  • Application: 1-2x Daily
  • Price per Oz: $
No.1 Bestseller

Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, 4.0 fl. oz.

  • Best For: Acne, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles
  • Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Green Tea
  • Medical Evidence: Excellent
  • Customer Reviews: Outstanding
  • Visible Results: 2-4 Weeks
  • Application: 1-2x Daily
  • Price per Oz: $$$

Paula's Choice vs La Roche-Posay

As a skincare editor with acne-prone skin, I’ve tried countless products aiming to balance my oily, clog-prone complexion. Two brands that make reining in breakouts easy are Paula’s Choice and La Roche-Posay, though key differences appeal to different needs.

Both Paula’s Choice and La Roche-Posay formulate top-sellers like the PC CLEAR Regular Strength System and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser with acne-fighting essentials salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to clear pores while calming redness. However, Paula’s Choice offers a wider range of chemical exfoliants beyond just salicylic acid, including glycolic, lactic and polyhydroxy acids to resurface skin. Comparatively, La Roche-Posay spotlight hydrating, strengthening ingredients like spring water, niacinamide and glycerin. So Paula’s Choice wins for anti-aging exfoliation, while La Roche-Posay suits extra moisture needs.

Texture-wise, I’d call both brands neck-and-neck. Paula's Choice serums, essences and masks feel ultra lightweight, absorbing quickly without residue. La Roche-Posay moisturizers have richer yet fast-penetrating finishes. For oil control, both brands mattify skin without feeling stripping or dry. Those with very dry complexions may gravitate towards La Roche-Posay’s heavier creams, while Paula’s Choice appeals to more oily, acneic skin wanting lighter layers.

Another key difference is price – Paula’s Choice lands on the premium side, costing $28-$42 for most full-size acne items. La Roche-Posay costs less overall with cleansers and treatments ranging from $14-30. However for serious exfoliation, those chemical actives do come at a cost!

Overall I’d say those wanting straight-forward acne cleansing and correction on a budget will feel satisfied sticking to La Roche-Posay. But when pesky texture, dark spots and fine lines accompany breakouts, Paula’s Choice’s wider range of chemical exfoliants fit the anti-aging acne bill. No matter which you choose, cutting out harsh irritants ensures effective but gentle blemish-banishing!

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Article written by Tom Qiao
Tom is the founder and editor of TheDermDetective.com where he applies his decades of personal experience with skincare problems like acne and acne scarring to provide readers with practical advice and product recommendations.

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